Jay Glazer leaps to Michael Strahan’s defence after Fox NFL Sunday backlash from fans over national anthem stance
JAY Glazer defended Michael Strahan after an “angry mob” targeted him for his Fox NFL Sunday actions.
The New York Giants icon faced a fan backlash for his stance on the US national anthem during Sunday’s show.
The Fox crew were at the Naval Base San Diego for Veterans Day weekend to pay tribute to the military.
And a section of fans took aim at Strahan after he flashed up on screen during the national anthem.
The football legend was joined by his whole Fox NFL Sunday contingent of on-air colleagues.
Glazer also took his place on set alongside Curt Menefee, Rob Gronkowski, Terry Bradshaw, Jimmy Johnson and Howie Long.
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The crew all put their hand on their chest for the national anthem – apart from Strahan.
The Good Morning America host had his hands by his side as he took in the incredible moment.
But some fans took issue with his stance.
Glazer on Monday fired back at those who criticized Strahan.
“I’ve just seen the criticism,” Glazer wrote on X.
“Let me tell you this, I don’t know if I have a friend who is more proud of his military roots than Michael.
“Growing up on an army base constantly talking about what he learned from his dad Major Gene Strahan and how his time there shaped him.
“I heard it CONSTANTLY, still do.”
Glazer continued, “But also, with no fanfare I personally saw him donate thousands of dollars of clothes to veterans, including many homeless veterans as well as clothes for veterans to go on job interviews.
“I know these days people want to be angry fast but maybe first, how is this for a novel idea.
“Ask him if he’s protesting something.
Michael Strahan’s NFL career
Michael Strahan is one of the most recognizable faces on television.
But he came into his media career off the back of a hugely successful stint in the NFL.
Strahan spent 14 years all with the New York Giants from 1993 to 2007.
He was a seven-time Pro Bowler and helped them win the Super Bowl in 2007 – ending the New England Patriots’ hopes of a perfect season.
Strahan was also a two-time NFL sacks leader and also won Defensive Player of the Year.
The ex-Giants star set the single-season sack record with 22.5 in 2001 – a feat which was matched by J.J. Watt exactly 20 years later.
He is one of the best defensive stars to have ever played the game – finishing with 141.5 career sacks and 854 tackles.
“When you protest you want people to know, don’t ya?
“He was NOT, just got caught up in how beautiful the whole moment was during the anthem and didn’t think about it.
“Ask the dude before forming an angry mob, but also maybe find out all he’s done for our veterans over the years.”
Strahan grew up in Germany after his father was posted there on military duty.
The Super Bowl champion and former Defensive Player of the Year sent a touching tribute to his dad on social media.
“This is my hero, it is also my father Maj. Gene W. Strahan Sr,” he wrote on X with a picture of his dad in military uniform.
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“Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day.
“Your selfless service is beyond measure.”